How Have Computers Changed Your Life At Home Or On The Job?

SATURDAY SPECIAL

March 23, 1996

The computer is regarded by many as the most important technological innovation ever. But beyond technology, the computer - particularly the advent of the personal computer - has brought changes in lifestyles.

For an upcoming page, Saturday special asks it readers: How have personal computers changed your life at home or on the job? What was your introduction to computers? Were you intimidated by the technology, or did you feel at ease from the very start? How have computers made your work easier - or harder? Have computers enabled you to work at home?

Are you or someone you know ''married'' to a computer? Are you so obsessive about the computer that you can't even write a quick note to the baby sitter or a grocery list by hand anymore - it has to be done on the computer? Has e-mail allowed you to renew or strengthen ties with far-away family members and acquaintances? Beyond personal computers, have you experienced financial headaches or problems with a bureaucracy because of computers? For instance, some people have been wrongly billed by utilities or businesses, and the reason is, ''The computer screwed up.''

Be sure you sign your full name and include a complete address as well as a daytime and evening phone number. Although essays of about 500 words are welcome, all letters are subject to editing for length and clarity. Send your responses to: Saturday Special, The Orlando Sentinel, 633 N. Orange Ave., Orlando, Fla. 32801. Of course, you can also send responses to osoinsight@aol.com - our e-mail address.